Police doing routine patrols on Okanagan Lake say a large number of the paddleboarders they check on are failing to follow federal safety regulations while out on the water.
Kelowna RCMP spokesman Const. Mike Della-Paolera says the officers see many paddlers not wearing a life-jacket, or not even having one on their boards, despite often being far from shore or close to active boating lanes.
Paddleboarders are required to wear an approved life-jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) or at least have one on board, according to small vessels regulations under the Canada Shipping Act.
The jackets or PFDs must be approved by the Canadian Coast Guard and clearly show the label indicating so.
It’s also recommended that paddleboarders wear their tethers at all times to avoid getting separated from the board.
If wearing a life-jacket or PFD, boarders only need to carry a simple sound-signalling device such as a whistle.
If not wearing one, the life-jacket or PFD must be on the board, along with a 15-metre buoyant heaving line in a throw bag. Once again, a whistle or other device is needed in that case.
Paddlers out after sunset, before sunrise or when visibility is restricted must also carry a watertight flashlight.
Della-Paolera said officers conducting the checks have been surprised by how many people are unaware of the requirements and lack simple safety practices.
“This lake has shown even in recent weeks how choppy and dangerous it can quickly become. You need to be prepared for this.
A ticket for not having a life-jacket or PFD can cost $287.50, and it’s also crucial for your own safety, police said.
“Please wear a life jacket when out enjoying our beautiful lake,” Della-Paolera said.
For more about paddleboarding and water safety, go to parks.canada.ca.
